A horrific shooting incident has rocked the community of Illovu on the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) South Coast, leaving two members of a family dead and one critically injured. The family of three was attacked while waiting for their vehicle to be repaired after it broke down in the area.
According to early reports, the family had stopped near the R603 road when unknown gunmen approached and opened fire. The sudden and violent attack forced the family to attempt to flee in different directions. Tragically, the father and son succumbed to fatal gunshot wounds, while the mother, although wounded, survived the attack and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Eyewitnesses and emergency services reported that the son attempted to escape by jumping into a nearby property located just below the R603. Unfortunately, he collapsed just minutes later due to the severity of his injuries and was declared dead at the scene.
The father, in a desperate bid to escape, ran several hundred metres from the vehicle but was relentlessly pursued by the attackers. He was eventually shot multiple times next to a stream, where he died from his injuries. Reports suggest that the assailants may have been armed with high-powered rifles.
Paramedics arriving at the scene found the wounded mother closer to the location of the broken-down car. She was stabilized on site and quickly transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment. Her condition remains unknown at this stage.
The motive behind the attack is not yet clear, and authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspects. Police are appealing to members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or who have any information that could assist in identifying the shooters to come forward.
This violent crime has sent shockwaves through the Illovu community and surrounding areas. Residents have expressed fear and outrage over the senseless act of violence that claimed innocent lives. Many are calling for increased police presence and stronger efforts to curb gun violence in the region.
Authorities are continuing their investigation, and crime scene specialists have been deployed to gather evidence and interview potential witnesses. The identities of the victims have not been released pending formal notification of other family members.
As the community mourns the loss of two lives and prays for the recovery of the third family member, questions remain about the circumstances leading up to the attack and the identities of those responsible.
The South African Police Service urges anyone with information to contact their nearest police station or call the crime tip-off hotline anonymously.
This tragedy serves as yet another painful reminder of the urgent need to address violent crime and ensure the safety of all citizens, especially those caught in vulnerable situations.